Re: Dashboard wiring

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2016/12/1 19:01:42

Keep plugging and keep the faith... This is a new problem to you, so it's expected.
We unfortunately get overwhelmed when we don't have/follow a troubleshooting methodology or maybe don't have the proper tools or know how.
In my estimation from reading your posts, you'd have to use some sort of acoustic pickup to find the exact source of the "ping" since your ear is apparently not able to discern it's origin since it's in a location that is not easy to hear up close. I don't know if there are any cell/smart phone apps for this. You could call someone and move the phone mic around and let them tell, if louder or not.
There's ways with a wave form scope with probes to see intermittent voltages or currents but maybe beyond what's needed. A fast digital DVM may also able to be used. Some models($$$) have a small scope screen on them. Analog's may not respond fast enough but sometimes they will "quivver" when the signal is oscillating. Depends on the amplitude and frequency.
The simplest but most laborious method is to one by one disconnect from power each circuit then re connect until it stops and restarts on power. You already have established its driven by the electrical power being on. Repeat that for the other circuits. Most auto DC problems arise from poor grounding issues.
Depends on your time frame and wallet but I suggest you get some help from a local automotive electric shop. They might be able to find your issue faster than you can. Search online or check the yellow pages. If there isn't one near to you, some local electric rebuilders / motor winders would have the expertise and may do this for you. But you'll probably have to take the car to them, which I don't know if you can accomplish. You have to judge.
If it's a component pinging and you rewire, it may not resolve your ping. A short usually doesn't ping. Thermal devices are more likely.
Other possibilities, it maybe a normal sound that gets "drowned out" when the motors running, something like a malfunctioning turn signal blinker. A short in that wiring would feed it but may not send enough voltage to fully activate lights. Contactors(relays/regulators) tend to chatter not ping.